The Paavola Wetlands is a great place to take a winter snowshoe hike or back-country ski. The trails are clearly flagged and signed for year-round use. Take a few friends along so you can take turns breaking trail. All of the trails have been showshoed this winter so you shouldn't sink down too far. Winter is a good time to explore the beaver dams near the northern end of the 'Pond Overlook Trail'. You may be able to safely cross the 'mystery lines' area between that end of the 'Pond Overlook Trail' and the 'Succession Loop' while the shallow water underneath is frozen. We believe these 'mystery lines' are a remnant of agricultural activity on the property. It is best to avoid the west side of the 'Succession Loop' between the 'Swamp Trail' and the 'White Pine Trail' because sections are wet. There are some majestic trees to see along the 'White Pine Trail' and I bet you'll see at least a sign of a snowshoe hare on your hike. There's plenty of room to park along the side of the No 9 Road near the trailhead. This gem is so close to where many of us live -- please enjoy!
We would like to encourage some volunteers, students, or scouts to design and/or construct a bridge to cross the wet area mentioned above. If you want to get involved please contact us and we'll make arrangements.
The Paavola Wetlands is a great place to take a winter snowshoe hike or back-country ski. The trails are clearly flagged and signed for year-round use. Take a few friends along so you can take turns breaking trail. All of the trails have been showshoed this winter so you shouldn't sink down too far. Winter is a good time to explore the beaver dams near the northern end of the 'Pond Overlook Trail'. You may be able to safely cross the 'mystery lines' area between that end of the 'Pond Overlook Trail' and the 'Succession Loop' while the shallow water underneath is frozen. We believe these 'mystery lines' are a remnant of agricultural activity on the property. It is best to avoid the west side of the 'Succession Loop' between the 'Swamp Trail' and the 'White Pine Trail' because sections are wet. There are some majestic trees to see along the 'White Pine Trail' and I bet you'll see at least a sign of a snowshoe hare on your hike. There's plenty of room to park along the side of the No 9 Road near the trailhead. This gem is so close to where many of us live -- please enjoy!